
Roti Sambal Bilis
Makan Tengah Hari • Malaysia
How to Make Savoury Bun Sambal Bilis (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Savoury Bun Sambal Bilis is a beloved Malaysian lunch staple that effortlessly combines the nation’s love for spicy sambal and soft, fluffy bread. Originating from local bakeries and kopitiams across the country, this bun is typically filled with a robust sambal made from bilis (anchovies) and aromatic spices. In this healthy, vegetarian version, we substitute traditional ikan bilis with plant-based alternatives, making it suitable for vegetarians without compromising on the signature bold flavors. The bun’s alluring aroma comes from local ingredients like pandan and lemongrass, which infuse each bite with distinctly Malaysian notes. The sambal, cooked low and slow, offers a tantalizing blend of sweetness, heat, and umami, paying homage to Malaysia’s multicultural palate. Enjoyed by all ages, Savoury Bun Sambal Bilis is perfect as a light lunch or hearty snack, especially when paired with a cup of teh tarik. Its soft texture and spicy-sweet filling capture the essence of Malaysian comfort food, making it a favorite in homes and bakeries nationwide.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 medium bun (about 80g), typical for Malaysian lunch)
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour (tepung gandum)
- 1 tsp Instant yeast (yis segera)
- 2 tbsp Sugar (gula)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (garam)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat milk (susu rendah lemak)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (minyak zaitun)
- 1/3 cup Vegetarian anchovies (ikan bilis vegetarian, available in local stores)
- 1 small, finely chopped Red onion (bawang merah)
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic (bawang putih)
- 2, sliced Fresh red chili (cili merah)
- 1 stalk, white part only, finely sliced Lemongrass (serai)
- 1 leaf, knotted Pandan leaf (daun pandan) - pilihan
- 1 tbsp Low-sugar tomato paste (for sambal color and flavor)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (for sambal)
- 1 tsp Brown sugar (gula perang)
Arahan
- 1
Combine flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gradually add low-fat milk and olive oil. Mix and knead for 8-10 minutes until a smooth dough forms.
10 minutes
Ensure the dough is soft but not sticky for fluffy buns.
- 2
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
30 minutes
Cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
- 3
Prepare the sambal: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick pan. Sauté red onion, garlic, lemongrass, and pandan leaf until fragrant.
3 minutes
Low heat prevents burning and enhances aroma.
- 4
Add vegetarian anchovies, fresh chili, tomato paste, salt, and brown sugar. Cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until sambal thickens. Remove pandan leaf.
7 minutes
Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
By substituting traditional ikan bilis with vegetarian alternatives and using olive oil, this recipe retains authentic Malaysian taste while lowering cholesterol and saturated fat content. The homemade sambal uses minimal sugar and no added preservatives, making it a cleaner, healthier choice. Baked instead of fried, each bun is lighter in calories, ideal for calorie-conscious eaters seeking wholesome Malaysian flavors.
This vegetarian Savoury Bun Sambal Bilis offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and healthy fats. The use of olive oil and low-fat milk reduces saturated fats, while whole ingredients like onions, lemongrass, and pandan contribute antioxidants and vitamins. Brown sugar is used sparingly to keep the glycemic load moderate. The bun’s fiber content can be increased by swapping some flour for whole wheat, supporting digestive health.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: For extra fragrance, add a small piece of daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaf) to the sambal.
- 💡Tip 2: Knead dough thoroughly for the softest bun crumb.
- 💡Tip 3: Let sambal cool before filling to prevent dough from becoming soggy.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Breakfast or Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 220.0 kcal |





